Holiday Traditions – Scandinavian Gløgg

Now that the Holiday season is upon us, I’m reminded that as a new family we have very few holiday traditions. My extended family is very small and scattered  these days and to be honest they don’t even bother to send us Christmas cards.  So I believe it’s time to start focusing on my own house and traditions.

Once I had my own child it was very important to me that we start doing this. All those things I grew up with as a child that made the holiday season magical. Dinner at mom’s with our grandparents, decorating the tree together, sending and receiving cards and hanging them around the door, listening to holiday music as we eat our dinner.

Since my husband is from Norway and we don’t get to spend time with his family during the holidays I have decided to start incorporating some of their traditions, for my son and my husband.

One tradition the Norwegian people have is Gløgg or Glögg, as the Swedish spell it is more of a Swedish tradition and is a drink that is made during Advent season. Glögg is traditionally made with red wine but there are also non-alcoholic versions, which is the kind we drink. Almonds and raisins are usually added to it but are not necessary.  December in Scandinavia is a dark, wintry time, and this hot drink helps keep the spirits cheered.

We actually receive our Gløgg directly from Norway but you can purchase it at Ikea. It’s called Tomte Glogg and it comes in a syrup type form which you can mix with water, wine, or spirits. But here is a traditional alcohol based recipe if you’re brave enough to try it. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Read more to see the recipe.

Gløgg

Ingredients:

1 bottle of red wine
0.5 Liter inexpensive brandy or vodka
10 cardamom pods
1 cinnamon stick (broken down)
1/2 orange peel (dried or fresh)
1/2 lbs sugar (regular or lumps)
Optional additions: 5 cloves, 1/2 cup raisins, 1/2 cup almonds,  dried figs
Preparation:
Heat the wine and brandy spices, fruit, and nuts in a pot (and any additions you might like.)

Be careful not to boil the mixture; just let it simmer for about 45 minutes.

Strain through a cloth to remove all additions.

Serve your Gløgg hot over lumped sugar (or with regular granulated sugar).

Optional: You can also serve the Gløgg with raisons or almonds. If you’d like the drink to be stronger, use more brandy.

This recipe makes approx 1/2 gallon.

I drink mine with whipped cream, cinnamon and raisins on top and it’s delicious. Although Gløgg is traditionally served in small cups I serve mine in goblets or a mug.